First record of Singhiella simplex (Singh, 1931) in Algeria

Abstract

Observations conducted from the end of May to July 2024 on the leaves of Ficus microcarpa trees present in public gardens and in green spaces of several academic institutions in the Mostaganem region, Algeria revealed the occurrence of a new species of invasive whitefly Singhiella simplex (Singh, 1931) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae). All life stages (eggs, nymphs, puparia and adults) were observed. The species was identified based on its morphological characteristics. This discovery is significant as S. simplex poses a substantial threat to urban forestry and ornamental areas, as F. microcarpa is widely grown and given the known impact of S. simplex in other regions.